Many cases of ventricular fibrillation (VF) cannot be prevented. Knowing the most common risk factors for VF can be helpful in preventing or recognizing symptoms before an episode occurs. If someone experiences what feels like a flutter, skipped beat or any other unusual cardiac activity, a medical opinion and diagnosis should be sought. Any unexplained fainting (syncope) incident should prompt immediate medical emergency treatment. With appropriate treatment, many patients who have experienced VF can go on to live normal, healthy lives.

If a person has family members that experienced a sudden death syndrome, they should be thoroughly investigated for familial causes of ventricular fibrillation. This may involve an electrocardiogram and other testing including genetic tests.